Temple Of The 3 Windows
The Temple of the Three Windows is one of the most iconic structures within the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. This architectural marvel is renowned for its unique design and spiritual significance, offering visitors a glimpse into the sophisticated engineering and cultural richness of the Inca civilization.
The temple known as the “Temple of the Three Windows” boasts the most intricately carved walls throughout the entirety of the Inca city. Moreover, it features some of the largest stone blocks found within the Citadel, underscoring its significance as one of the principal enclosures for the Incas. The wall housing these distinctive windows spans an impressive 10 meters in length by eight meters in width, with the windows themselves fashioned in a trapezoidal shape.
Flanking either side of this architectural marvel, the Incas constructed niches where they ceremonially placed objects crafted from gold or silver. The meticulous craftsmanship evident in its walls, coupled with the inclusion of these niches, strongly suggests that the Temple of the Three Windows served as the focal point for some of Machu Picchu’s most esteemed religious ceremonies.
Where Is Located?
It is located in the esteemed “Hanan” sector or high neighborhood, this particular area of Machu Picchu boasts significant religious edifices. Positioned strategically, it offers visitors a breathtaking panorama encompassing the majestic Huayna Picchu and Putucusi mountains. The architectural and natural splendor converges, providing an awe-inspiring vista from its windows, thus enhancing the spiritual and visual experience for those fortunate enough to behold it.
Visiting Hours
The temple of the 3 windows are the whole day so you can visit from 6 am until 5 pm.
The 3 windows facing the east
The precise orientation of the Temple of the Three Windows toward the east was not merely coincidental but deliberate, serving as a mechanism for the Inca astronomers to meticulously observe the sunrise. This deliberate alignment allowed them to closely monitor the sun’s trajectory, particularly during significant solar events such as solstices and equinoxes. By tracking the sun’s movement at sunrise, the Inca priests and astronomers could accurately determine the changing seasons throughout the year.
The Inca Trilogy
Central to Inca belief was the concept of a tripartite cosmology, which divided the universe into three distinct realms: the celestial or heavenly world (Hanan pacha), the earthly world (Kay pacha), and the underworld or inner world (Uku pacha). Each realm played a crucial role in the Inca understanding of existence and was imbued with spiritual significance.
the tripartite division of the world in Inca cosmology is a fascinating aspect of their cultural and religious beliefs. The condor, puma, and snake each held significant symbolism and were associated with various domains of the natural and spiritual world.
The Inscription On The Stone
The inscription found on the wall of the Temple of the Three Windows in Machu Picchu, dating back to July 14, 1902, bore the names of four individuals: Agustín Lizárraga, Enrique Palma, Justo Ochoa, and Gabino Sánchez. These individuals were all natives of Cuzco who resided in the vicinity of Machu Picchu. Agustín Lizárraga was noted as the land tenant, while the others were listed as his laborers or workers, indicating their involvement in the local community and perhaps in the activities surrounding the temple.
It’s noteworthy that this inscription was captured in a photograph featured in Hiram Bingham’s seminal work, ‘The Lost City of the Incas’, marking its significance in the historical record of Machu Picchu. Bingham, an American explorer, gained widespread recognition for his exploration of Machu Picchu in 1911, which brought international attention to the site.
However, it is lamentable that during Bingham’s expedition to Machu Picchu in 1911, the inscription on the Temple of the Three Windows was reportedly erased by his exploratory team. The reasons behind this action remain subject to speculation and interpretation, raising questions about the ethics of altering historical artifacts and the preservation of cultural heritage.